‘Master, you delivered to me two talents; here, I have made two talents more.’
Parable of the Talents, Matthew 25: 14-30
The Choral Program at the Catholic Community of Hopewell Valley is an intergenerational ministry for those with gifts and skills in music (and a desire to grow those skills) who feel called to give of their time and talent to the Lord in the liturgy.
Each of the three parishes has a corresponding choral ensemble, with additional ensembles for youth, experienced singers, and even those who cannot commit to weekly rehearsals but still desire to be part of the singing community. The choir season runs from September - June each year.
“Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” Matthew 19:14
Parishes St. George & St. James Rehearsals Seasonally Liturgies Seasonally
Children with a love of music are warmly invited to join the seasonal Seraphim Singers. Rehearsals and liturgies are determined in conjunction with the Religious Education program at the Catholic Community of Hopewell Valley.
Seasonal liturgies include: Christmas Eve 8:00 p.m., First Communions, and Pentecost.
Tri-Parish Contemporary Band
"Do not let anyone look down on you because you are young, but be an example for other believers in your speech, behavior, love, faithfulness, and purity." 1 Timothy 4:12
Parishes St. George & St. James Rehearsals Seasonally on Sunday evenings Liturgies Seasonally
Comprised of singers and instrumentalists with a love for contemporary Christian music, the St. George Choir sings monthly at the 11:00 a.m. mass and for seasonal tri-parish liturgies and events. The only requirements for this group are a willingness to learn and the ability to sing. Young people wishing to give of their gifts through music are encouraged to consider joining this group.
Seasonal liturgies include: Teen Stations of The Cross (Good Friday), Confirmations, First Communions, and Pentecost.
Tri-Parish Schola
"Sing to the LORD a new song, for he has done marvelous things." Psalm 98:1
Parishes St. Alphonsus, St. George, & St. James Rehearsals Seasonally on Wednesdays from 8:15 - 9:15 p.m. Liturgies Solemnities, Christmas, Triduum, Special Feasts
The Tri-Parish Schola is an auditioned group of singers and instrumentalists that serve as the primary music team for combined liturgies at the three parishes of the Catholic Community of Hopewell Valley. Ability to read music and previous experience in a liturgical ensemble are strongly encouraged. Auditions are held after Labor Day and on a rolling basis.
St. James Choir
"Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you." James 4:8
Parish St. James Rehearsals Wednesdays from 7:00 - 8:15 p.m. Liturgies Sundays at 10:00 a.m. (meet at 9:15 a.m.)
With a tradition of excellence in sacred choral music spanning decades, the St. James Choir is for any singer 18 years and older with an interest in regularly singing in four-part harmony for liturgies. Weekly psalms, hymns, and meditations are prepared corresponding to the liturgical season - all with the goal of elevating the prayer of the people to behold our Lord in reverence and awe.
St. James Voices
"Is anyone among you in trouble? Let them pray. Is anyone happy? Let them sing songs of praise." James 5:3
Director Joann Held | [email protected] Parish St. James Rehearsals First Tuesdays of the Month from 7:30 - 9:00 p.m. Liturgies Varies (see calendar)
St. James Voices (formerly "St. James Occasional Choir") is for singers and instrumentalists who may not be able to make regular weekly rehearsals but still wish to use their gifts in a liturgical music group. The ensemble meets once a month to rehearse and sings at one or two weekend liturgies at St. James Church twice a month. No previous experience is required.